Evelyn Kolenda

Evelyn (Petroski) Kolenda, 89, passed away on November 2, 2025 in Baldwin, Michigan.
Born on February 11, 1936, in Elmira, Michigan, Evelyn was a cherished member of her community and a loving matriarch of her family.
Evelyn graduated from Grand Rapids Catholic Central High School. In the early 1970s, alongside her husband Ronald, whom she was married to for 52 blissful years until his passing, she co-purchased and operated Oak Grove Tavern in Irons. For nearly two decades, Evelyn and Ron were at the heart of their community, providing a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike.
Beyond her professional life, Evelyn was deeply passionate about her hobbies which included knitting, crocheting, Swedish weaving, cross stitching, and reading. Known for her love of social gatherings, she relished playing cards, engaging in lively conversations, and enjoying meals with friends and family.
Evelyn is survived by her three daughters, Karen (Steve) Riggs of Irons, Sue Lanting of Grand Rapids, and Jayne (Paul) Bellgraph of Allegan; her grandchildren, Stephanie (Mat) Andrews, Matt Riggs, Brent (Trisha) Bellgraph, and Ashley Bellgraph; and her great-grandchildren, Roslynn, Eloise, Piper, Jordynn, and Skyler. She was preceded in death by her husband Ronald Kolenda, her parents Frank and Catherine Petroski, and her siblings Richard, Chester, Florence, and Irene.
A Mass from the Order of Christian Funerals will be held on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at 11:30 am at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Irons, with visitation starting at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The Lake County Catholic Baby Pantry, a cause Evelyn held dear.
Evelyn's legacy of warmth, community involvement, and familial devotion will be fondly remembered and sorely missed by all who knew her.
Arrangements were entrusted to Grace Funeral Home & Cremation Services, www.GraceCremations.com.